Physical Aspects of Transgender Endocrine Therapy

SUMMARY

The goal of transgender endocrine therapy is to change secondary sex characteristics to reduce gender dysphoria and/or facilitate gender presentation that is consistent with the felt sense of self. To maximize desired effects and minimize adverse effects, endocrine therapy must be individualized based on the patient's goals, the risk/benefit ratio of medications, the presence of other medical conditions, and consideration of social and economic issues. In this article we suggest protocols for the prescribing clinician relating to physical assessment, prescription planning, initiation of endocrine therapy, and ongoing maintenance in transgender adults.

KEYWORDS:

• Transgender
• gender dysphoria
• sex reassignment
• hormones
• sex steroids
• endocrine therapy